Bald Faced Hornets

Bald Faced Hornets

Bald faced hornets get their common name due to their black bodies and predominantly white-patterned faces. They greatly resemble their yellow jacket relatives but are considered a hornet because of their large size and their grey, paper-like, enclosed aerial nests. Bald faced hornets are beneficial (they prey upon other pests) but you will not want them to build their nest near your home. Due to their protective and aggressive nature, their threat far outweighs their benefit.

Habitat

Baldfaced hornets live in colonies of 100 – 400 members. Their queen chooses where they will build their nests, usually on dense shrubs and trees, building overhangs, utility poles, houses, sheds, or other structures. These nests are typically at least three or more feet off of the ground and about the size of a baseball, but can be as large as 14 inches in diameter and more than 24 inches in length. Bald faced hornets do not reuse their nests from season to season—new members rebuild each season using new materials.

Signs of an Infestation

A bald-faced hornet infestation is clearly visible with the presence of a nest, which would be suspended above the ground. There will also be worker bald-faced hornets flying around the nest and nearby areas.

Aggressive Attacks

As a social insect, bald faced hornets are protective of their nests. Quick movements, loud noises, and vibrations can disturb these insects. These perceived threats result in swarming and repeatedly stinging people/animals they believe to be a threat. Bald faced hornets’ smooth stingers allow them to repeatedly attack their target over and over again, unlike honeybees which can only attack once before their stinger falls off.

Have Bald-faced Hornets? Trust Truly Nolen Atlanta

Hornets, yellow jackets, and various species of paper wasps are the most commonly encountered wasps in Georgia. The discovery of a nest or swarm near your home or business may cause you to become immediately concerned about the safety of your family, pets, and property. Despite your desire to quickly eradicate these pests, it is best to contact a professional rather than try to eliminate them yourself. If you live in our Atlanta service area, let the licensed pest control professionals at Truly Nolen take care of your baldfaced hornet situation. We are licensed and trained to deal specifically with the task of handling these stinging insects. Contact us or schedule a free inspection today!